Iran Sanctions Push: US Treasury chief Scott Bessent says Washington will impose “the toughest sanctions in history” to “collapse” Iran’s regime, urging allies and China to join an economic isolation campaign as Trump warns any “lifeline” to Tehran will trigger “tremendous economic consequences.” Middle East War Spillover: Iran rejects the threats as “economic terrorism,” while oil prices jump on fears for Hormuz-linked supply and markets brace for prolonged pressure rather than a quick military off-ramp. Israel Settlements Pressure: Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Canada condemn Israel’s E-1 West Bank settlement tender plan, calling it unacceptable and warning it undermines peace prospects. US Regional Posture: The USS George Washington carrier strike group arrives in the Middle East to replace the long-deployed USS Abraham Lincoln amid renewed scrutiny of conditions and morale. Markets & Debt: US national debt tops $40tn as Treasury expands longer-dated bond buybacks; rising yields and higher oil feed inflation worries and weigh on equities. Pakistan Finance Deal: IFC and Bank Alfalah sign Pakistan’s first DPR programme agreement, targeting up to $100m in long-term foreign-currency financing. Yemen Red Sea Risk: Houthis plan to tighten control around Bab el-Mandeb by expanding presence along Yemen’s coast and key islands, raising disruption fears for shipping.